What is a WS2812B LED strip?

The WS2812B is an individually addressable RGB LED with an integrated WS2812B driver IC inside each LED package. Each pixel can display any of 16.7 million colors (24-bit color depth — 8 bits per R, G, B channel) and is controlled via a single-wire data protocol at 800 Kbps. It operates at 5V DC and draws approximately 60mA per pixel at full white brightness.

What densities are available for WS2812B strips?

We carry WS2812B strips in three densities: 30 LEDs/m (standard spacing, best for accent lighting and long runs), 60 LEDs/m (balanced density for most projects), and 144 LEDs/m (high density for pixel art displays and smooth color gradients). All densities come in 1m and 5m rolls.

Are WS2812B strips waterproof?

We offer three IP ratings: IP30 (bare PCB, indoor only), IP65 (silicone-coated top surface, splash-resistant), and IP67 (fully enclosed in silicone tube, suitable for outdoor and wet environments). For permanent outdoor installations, we recommend IP67 with additional channel mounting.

How many WS2812B pixels can I run from one data line?

Practically, a single data line can drive 300-500 WS2812B pixels reliably. Beyond 300 pixels, you should inject power every 150 pixels to prevent voltage drop and color shift. For very long runs (1000+ pixels), use a level shifter (3.3V to 5V) and consider the APA102 protocol for better signal integrity.

WS2812B Addressable RGB LED Strips

The WS2812B is the world's most popular addressable LED pixel. Each tiny 5050-package LED contains a built-in WS2812B driver IC that receives 24-bit color data (8 bits per channel) via a single-wire protocol at 800 Kbps. This means you can control thousands of pixels with just one data pin on your microcontroller.

Our WS2812B strips come on flexible PCBs in three densities: 30 LEDs/m for accent lighting and architectural outlines, 60 LEDs/m for balanced general-purpose use, and 144 LEDs/m for pixel art displays and smooth high-resolution effects. All strips are available in 1m and 5m rolls, with IP30 (indoor), IP65 (splash-proof), and IP67 (fully waterproof) options.

Specifications

LED type: WS2812B (5050 RGB with integrated IC)
Voltage: 5V DC
Color depth: 24-bit (16.7 million colors)
Protocol: Single-wire NRZ at 800 Kbps
Current per pixel: 60mA max (full white), ~20mA typical animation
Densities: 30, 60, 144 LEDs per meter
IP ratings: IP30, IP65, IP67
PCB width: 10mm (30/60 LED/m), 12mm (144 LED/m)
Operating temperature: -25°C to 80°C
Lifespan: 50,000+ hours

Density Comparison

30 LEDs/m — 33mm pixel spacing. Best for cove lighting, staircase outlines, and long runs where pixel density is less important. Lowest cost per meter with maximum cable run length due to reduced current draw (1.8A per meter max).

60 LEDs/m — 16.7mm pixel spacing. The most versatile option. Individual pixels are barely visible behind a diffuser, making it ideal for under-cabinet lighting, desk setups, TV backlighting, and general decorative effects. Draws 3.6A per meter max.

144 LEDs/m — 6.9mm pixel spacing. Pixels blend together even without a diffuser, creating smooth gradients and detailed pixel art. Essential for LED matrix displays, POV (persistence of vision) projects, and any application requiring high-resolution output. Draws 8.6A per meter max — power injection recommended every 0.5m.

Wiring Guide

WS2812B strips have three connections: 5V (red wire), GND (white or black wire), and DATA (green wire). Connect DATA to your controller's output pin. Add a 300-470Ω resistor in series with the data line close to the first pixel to prevent signal reflections. Place a 1000μF electrolytic capacitor across 5V and GND at the power injection point to absorb power-on surges.